The GranTurismo replaced the simply named Maserati Coupé in 2007, bringing the performance of that car together with increased refinement and plenty of Italian flair. It is easily the most aggressively styled Maserati in the current lineup, with an exotic look and a curvaceous profile expected of a high-performance Italian two-door. It is one of very few cars that looks as good or even better in convertible form, the lowered roof accentuating the strong rear fenders. In markets outside our own, Maserati markets the drop-top GranTurismo as the GranCabrio.

With its quick-ratio steering and a Skyhook air suspension with Sport mode, the GranTurismo manages to feel surprisingly nimble, considering that it's heavier than most other rival coupes. The Sport and MC models have their own specific suspension settings, offering an even firmer ride. The MC has excellent brakes with a pedal feel on par with those of other exotics.

A 405-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-8 was originally standard on the GranTurismo, and GranTurismo S models initially got a 433-hp, 4.7-liter version. For the 2012 model year, the 4.2-liter V-8 was discontinued, and all GranTurismo models now have a 4.7-liter V-8, with base cars rated at 444 hp and others at 454 hp. Maserati estimates 0-60 mph times as low as 4.7 seconds and a top speed maxing out at 185 mph. A GranTurismo MC edition inspired by Maserati's racing efforts sports 20-inch wheels and dark metallic trim.

In all forms, the engine lives up to its Ferrari pedigree, emitting a low rumble at idle and a tuneful wail under full acceleration. All GranTurismos now have a 6-speed ZF automatic transmission and excellent column-mounted steering-wheel paddles for shifting. The setup works well, with the transmission shifting quickly and decisively. Some previous models came with the brand's Duo-Select automated manual gearbox, which we recommended against due to exceptionally rough shifts during leisurely driving.

The Maserati GranTurismo feels snug, because of its quite narrow footwells and tight sport seats, but it's also warm and inviting thanks to soft leather and other excellent cabin details. There are back seats in the GranTurismo, but they're mostly for small adults and children, though they look enticing enough to try. The front seats provide enough space for taller adults, and trunk space should be just enough for a weekend trip. Maserati sells most of its GranTurismo and Quattroporte models by special order rather than off the lot, with a long list of customization options, interior trims, and luxury features, including a navigation system by Magneti Marelli, "trident" logo stitching on the seats, and carbon-fiber trim for the MC edition.

A new Sport version of the 2013 GranTurismo debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, joining the GranTurismo convertible Sport from the previous year. Sport models received a 460-hp version of the 4.7-liter V-8 engine, helping the cars run to 60 mph in about five seconds. At the 2013 Geneva show, an updated version of the more hardcore MC Stradale was unveiled, potentially previewing updates for the U.S.-market GranTurismo MC. And making their debut at the 2014 New York auto show were GranTurismo and GranCabrio Centennial models, celebrating Maserati's hundredth year with a very special look.

The GranTurismo received no major updates for the 2015, 2016, or 2017 model years. It continues to be available in the MC Centennial Editions, even though the 100-year anniversary has passed.

Looking forward, the GranTurismo is expected to be replaced soon with both a new GranTurismo and a smaller model tentatively called Alfieri. The brand showed its Alfieri concept at the 2014 Geneva motor show. It is based on a shortened GranTurismo platform and envisions a more compact and very striking 2+2 that is meant as an homage to the company's 100-plus-year history. The GranTurismo is expected to be a grand tourer and the Alfieri will be more of a rival for the Porsche 911.